What to do with data once you’ve captured it

Data capture is key to any business, but how do you use it once you’ve got it?

In today’s business world, we are inundated with mountains of data from each and every angle. With numerous different devices facilitating data capture, it’s very easy to become buried in the vast amount of information available. It’s no secret that using data to formulate a successful business strategy is essential, but when there is such a vast quantity of data available, it can become overwhelming and actually distract you from your end goal. Collecting the data is the easy part. The key to success is less how you obtain it and more what you do with it.

Organisation, Organisation, Organisation

When there is such a large volume of information at your fingertips, it can become confusing. Data is only useful if it is stored in a manageable and accessible way, however, this is easier said than done. Investing in technology can make this process a whole lot easier, leaving more time for you to utilise the information to increase your revenue, or close in on a result. Products like an electronic laboratory notebook are invaluable when collecting scientific data. By utilising the technology available, you will be able to integrate and grow your data seamlessly. By storing data in a cloud system, all stakeholders in your organisation will have easy access to the information at any given time, and you will avoid any unforeseen data losses.

Use it Wisely

Once your data has been collected and organised as per your requirements, you can now begin the process of using it. First of all you’ll need to set in stone what your objectives are. Without knowing what your end goal is, you’ll become sidetracked with the sheer amount of information in front of you. If you’re planning to create a geographically targeted marketing campaign using your customer database, there’s no need to trawl through every single data set at your disposal. Instead, filter your data to show only the relevant information for your needs in order to keep the process as streamlined as possible, thus saving time and money.

Don’t Get Swamped

With so much information coming from a number of different sources, it’s so easy to get snowed under. You should be able to make the data work for you, not the other way around. If you begin to feel stressed out with it all, take a step back and re-evaluate what you’re trying to achieve. Getting a second pair of eyes on your data is crucial: an impartial party will be able to be much more critical of your data. If you can take a minute to reevaluate your goals, you’ll be in a much better position moving forward.

Analysing data can have such a big impact on your business. If you don’t know where to start, take a look at the data you have, and think about what your goals are: do you want more sales, more website traffic, or something else? Used in the correct way, data can help you achieve all of these things.